Dutch PM makes surprise visit to Ukraine, during which he announced a new aid package worth more than 200 million euros, according to The Kyiv Independent.
Ukrainian President shared on social media that he and the Dutch Prime Minister met with veterans of the Russian-Ukrainian war in Zaporizhzhia, honoring those who have defended Ukraine since 2014 and 2022.
They discussed key defense issues and how the Netherlands can support Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of preserving the memory of fallen soldiers and protecting the nation.
President Zelensky stated that the leaders talked about new air defense systems for Ukraine, missiles for those systems, F-16 fighter jets, and other essential weapons needed for Ukraine's defense against Russia.
PM Schoof stated on X that Ukrainians deserve to live in freedom and safety, and halting Russia’s attacks on Ukraine is crucial for the security of both the Netherlands and all of Europe.
Netherlands and allies to provide F-16s to Ukraine
According to Polish state news agency PAP, the Netherlands, along with Denmark, Norway, and Belgium, have committed to supplying Ukraine with 60 new F-16s.
Volodymyr Zelensky also announced that discussions included enhancing air defense, such as the delivery of Patriot systems and missiles, and shared with the Dutch Prime Minister intelligence on Russian missiles used in attacks on Ukraine, which contain Western components.
The President suggested that Ukrainian forces' capture of part of the Kursk region in Russia could impact the most dangerous frontlines near Pokrovsk and Toretsk in the Donetsk region, potentially leading to a reduction in Russian troop numbers and a decrease in escalation, noting that the Russians have made no progress in the Pokrovsk sector for two days.
The Ukrainian leader also confirmed earlier media reports regarding the number of Russian prisoners captured in Kursk. Zelensky noted at a joint press conference with Schoof that having over 600 captives enables them to arrange exchanges for their own detained personnel.
Source: PAP/The Kyiv Independent
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